#Japan #Tokyo #MOL #LBC Tank #Chemical Logistics

MOL Completes Acquisition of LBC Tank Terminals

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (President: Tsutomu Hashimoto, headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo) has officially completed the acquisition of LBC Tank Terminals Group Holding Netherlands Coöperatief U.A., following the approval from relevant authorities. The acquisition, which was based on a share transfer agreement signed on March 7, 2025, was finalized on June 30, 2025, with an acquisition price of $1.715 billion.

This acquisition marks a significant strategic move for MOL's group, as it aims to position chemical logistics as a key growth area. With previous acquisitions of Nordic Tankers in 2019 and Fairfield Chemical Carriers in 2024, the addition of LBC enhances MOL's portfolio to include both maritime transportation and land-based storage solutions. This diversification strengthens the company's ability to adapt to various customer needs and reduces volatility within its operations, supporting stable revenue growth in line with the corporate plan, "BLUE ACTION 2035."

Moreover, with the growing demand for transportation needs related to ammonia and CO2 as part of efforts toward a decarbonized society, integrating land storage into MOL’s business framework accelerates the company’s development in next-generation energy initiatives.

Comments from Leadership

President Hashimoto commented, “By welcoming LBC into our group, we will accelerate our transformation into a social infrastructure company centered around the sea as articulated in our group management plan. The combination of our global network with LBC's expertise in tank terminal operations positions us to deliver new value to our customers and society at large. We aim to further enhance our chemical logistics operations alongside LBC and expand the value chain of our next-generation energy business.”

LBC CEO Frank Erkelens expressed enthusiasm for starting this new chapter as part of the MOL Group. “I am genuinely excited about the prospect of merging our strengths. I firmly believe that together, we can create significant new value. With our shared values, complementary expertise, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, we have immense possibilities to contribute meaningfully to society while enhancing our global presence. We will collectively harness unparalleled advantages towards growth, innovation, and a sustainable future.”

About LBC Tank Terminals

Founded in October 2013 and headquartered in the Netherlands, LBC is a prominent player in the tank terminal industry, operating storage facilities for liquid chemicals, refined petroleum products, and crude oil across Europe and the United States. With seven terminals strategically located in significant chemical industry clusters, including Antwerp and Rotterdam in Europe, and the Gulf Coast region in the United States (Houston, Freeport, and Baton Rouge), LBC Tank Terminals is one of the largest tank terminal companies globally.

This acquisition not only strengthens MOL's position in the chemical logistics sector but also emphasizes its commitment to adapting to evolving industry needs and contributing to sustainable energy solutions as the market shifts towards greener practices. As part of its long-term vision, MOL is set to redefine its capabilities in the energy and chemical sectors through this strategic merger, paving the way for future growth and innovation.